Idaho Agriculture Highlighted in Chicago

News Date April 24, 2006

        BIO 2006, the Biotechnology Industry Organization's Annual International Convention was held last week in Chicago. Focused on agriculture, the event included participants from 24 countries. State and industry leaders have partnered to host an Idaho pavilion at this year's show, which will mark the state's largest participation ever in the international event.
        For the first time, Commerce & Labor Director Roger B. Madsen and Idaho Agriculture Secretary Pat Takasugi attended as part of the Idaho contingent. "Having a strong Idaho delegation at the event gives us the opportunity to highlight our state's vibrant research efforts and its growing bioscience industry," Madsen said. "Our ultimate goal is to position Idaho as a preferred location for biotechnology companies considering new expansion opportunities."
        The state's pavilion featured representatives from many areas of the industry including all three major Idaho universities, the Idaho National Laboratory, the Idaho Economic Development Association, BioIdaho, Idaho Office of Science & Technology, The Idaho Department of Agriculture, Monsanto, J.R. Simplot Co., and Washington Group International.
        Takasugi says that Idaho's prominence at events like these is a reflection of the welcoming atmosphere the state has for businesses.
        "In Chicago, we told the biotechnology industry that Idaho is a great place to do business and that our agriculture industry continues to be strong and vibrant thanks to the state's strong leadership," he said. "This conference will help us tell our state's great story and promote continued economic development." (Contact: Wayne Hoffman, 208/332-8671)